Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
King Solomon made himself a carriage from the wood of Lebanon. He made its posts of silver, its back of gold, its seat of purple; its interior was inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem. Go out, O daughters of Zion, and look upon King Solomon, with the crown with which his mother crowned him on the day of his wedding, on the day of the gladness of his heart.
– Song of Solomon 3:9-11
Devotion
The great king Solomon had carefully prepared for this wedding day many days in advance. This event was not something that was just thrown together, but every detail had been given much thought. Solomon chose wood from Lebanon for the carriage, constructed its exterior with precious metals, upholstered it with purple cloth, and had its interior decorated by caring professionals. Solomon arrives in this magnificent carriage wearing his royal crown and heart is full of joy and gladness as he experiences the day that he has longed for.
Like Solomon, those who wish to get married should prepare and put thought into their commitment. Most people don’t have the resources that King Solomon had, but marriage should be entered into with serious thought and attention to honoring one another and the serious nature of the covenant. This special attention should not end with the wedding day. Sometimes it is helpful for married couples to set aside special dates or vacations, or surprise each other with thoughtful notes or gifts. These don’t have to be expensive, it’s the thought that counts! The wedding day is just the beginning of the amazing journey of marriage. Those who are married should seek to fill their spouses each day with gladness, and take time to plan opportunities which will bring them closer together as God intended.
The Big Question
Why are many people more thoughtful when dating than after they are married? What would a marriage look like if couples lived each day as if it was their wedding day? If you are married, what practical steps might you take to make your spouse feel honored, thanked, and special?
Conclude in prayer and silence reflecting on what you’ve learned.